Assessment of Masonry Wall Deformation through Vertical Displacement Gradients Using COSMO-SkyMed SAR Interferometry: The Case Study of Archaeological Park of Pompeii

A multi-level, multi-scale monitoring approach, leveraging WebGIS, Internet of Things (IoT), and Digital Twins, has been implemented at the Archaeological Park of Pompeii (PAP) to support proactive maintenance process for the preservation of the site. This study integrates satellite techniques, particularly PSInSAR™, into the General Assessment (GA) level, significantly enhancing monitoring strategies. Data from the COSMO-SkyMed mission, led by the Italian Space Agency (ASI), have been used to accurately map vertical displacements, highlighting areas of subsidence and uplift. A tailored process was developed to determine the primary directions in the horizontal plane of the ancient walls inside the PAP. Vertical displacement velocity gradients were then calculated along these directions by combining the ascending and descending acquisition geometries. The gradient analysis along the principal directions of each insula of the PAP provided a clear representation of deformations, which is crucial for pinpointing problematic areas and directing further in-situ investigations. This approach underscores the effectiveness of PSInSAR™ in both emergency management and routine maintenance, offering valuable insights for the preservation of cultural heritage in Pompeii.